Highlights of Costa Rica and Panama

Overview

Set in Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park, Nayara Tented Camp is one of the only luxury tented camps in Central America and the sister property to the nearby Nayara Springs and Nayara Gardens. The immediate proximity to the surrounding rainforest and impressive views of the volcano make a stay here a one-of-a-kind experience.

There are a total of 29 luxuriously appointed tents within the camp, each blending harmoniously with nature. The camp is also designed with families in mind, featuring six family tents. These include an outdoor living space which is complemented by an oversized plunge pool. Dive into the cooling water, invigorated by the natural hot springs’ embrace, and let your worries melt away in its serene waves.

Nayara Tented Camp is also home to the signature Nayara tent, a tranquil oasis on stilts complete with a private pool,  along with two residences. With panoramic views of the volcano, the residences have plenty of indoor and outdoor entertainment space.

Savour modern Mediterranean dishes with a Middle Eastern touch at Ayla restaurant, located in an elegant tent with incredible views of the infinity pool, the rainforest and the majestic Arenal Volcano. Afterwards, enjoy traditional cocktails and spirits at Henry’s Bar next door.

Admire the breathtaking forest view from the terrace or seek out the additional plunge pools, which are surrounded by dense forest and fed by the same mineral hot springs. There are a plethora of experiences to embark on during your stay, such as whitewater rafting, canyoning, ziplining, canopy tours, volcano hikes or just spot the sloths that call this area home.

Overview

Amor Arenal offers a luxurious, nature-immersed experience in the heart of Costa Rica, harmonising with the tropical forest of the Arenal Volcano and celebrating the sights, sounds, flavours and scents of the region.

The open layout rooms feature bold architecture with vaulted ceilings and panoramic windows that invite the dense forest inside. Each room boasts a suspended outdoor deck with a heated whirlpool and hardwood Adirondack loungers, perfect for soaking in the tropical forest jungle of Arenal Volcano.

Daily complimentary yoga high above the forest canopy and invigorating exercise sessions with cardio machines are just part of the resort’s offering of a holistic approach to well-being. The mineral springs, a hallmark of Costa Rica’s La Fortuna region, offer restorative natural elements and the resort harnesses these waters to offer three pools. The waters of the swim-up bar with in-water bar stools invite you to enjoy refreshing cocktails. The main cool-water mineralised pool is shrouded by the forest canopy with glimpses of Arenal Volcano. The lounging pool, a smaller retreat surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, is perfect for reading, napping and enjoying meaningful moments of relaxation and connection to nature.

Overview

Nayara Gardens, the original property in the hilltop trio that also consists of Nayara Springs and Nayara Tented Camp, is a fitting choice for those looking for a private getaway in Arenal. Situated in the green valleys at the foot of the spectacular Arenal Volcano are Nayara Gardens’ 50 spacious and private casitas (bungalows) and villas.

Large screened windows open up allowing for plenty of natural light. The decor is a call to the wildlife of Costa Rica with lashings of tropical orange and the greens of encroaching foliage, along with dark wood furniture. Boasting expansive garden decks, the casitas are further adorned with hammocks or Jacuzzis where you can unwind to the melodies of the rainforest, making this property an ideal hideaway for those after a romantic retreat.

For the utmost luxury, enjoy a stay in the uniquely designed Rainforest Pool Villa. Here light drips in from almost every angle due to the villa’s octagonal layout, and the lush rainforest seems within touching distance from the wraparound balcony. Relax in the cooling waters of your own private plunge pool as you gaze out across to the Arenal Volcano.

When you aren’t indulging yourself in the luxuries of your casita, head down to any of the four restaurants in order to savour rich Costa Rican flavours. Nayara Gardens also hosts a plethora of experiences which you can embark on with a private guide. Whip across the top of the rainforest canopy on a zipline or rappel down the side of one of Arenal’s waterfalls.

Alternatively, make your way to the property’s spa for a massage, coffee scrub or a volcanic mud bath. Perched atop a cliff and overlooking the forest, it’s the ideal place to unwind and rejuvenate.

Overview

This boutique hotel encompasses all things luxurious, with views overlooking the grand Arenal Volcano, beautiful villas and a state-of-the-art spa and yoga pavilion. Privacy is as well taken care of as luxury, sitting outside the Costa Rican town of La Fortuna, Nayara Springs provides the perfect amount of seclusion at around three hours from the capital, San Jose.

Each of the 35 villas is nestled among the floral gardens of the tropical rainforest and boasts its own personal pool, a spacious private garden with outdoor shower, a sumptuous four-poster bed, alongside both indoor and outdoor seating areas.

A rich array of natural wildlife awaits, and guests can enjoy it from their private terrace, or by taking a tour through the Arenal Volcano National Park. Guests can then unwind by indulging in a treatment at the spa, heading to the yoga pavilion or swimming pool, or enjoying a drink at the stylish piano bar.

Cuisine at Nayara Springs is served at the lovely poolside restaurant, Amor-Loco, where fresh fish, Latin American inspired sushi and organic home-grown vegetables all grace the menu.

Overview

Tabacon is a beautiful and serene luxury hotel, located at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano. It is set within 900 acres of lush, tropical grounds through which Costa’s Rica’s largest network of hot springs flows.

This rainforest retreat is tucked away on a winding road that climbs up from the small village of La Fortuna. There are 103 rooms and suites that look out over the rainforest and gardens. Decor is contemporary and elegant and feature artwork and furnishings from Costa Rican artists.

The River Tabacon feeds into waterfalls and warm pools lined with soft, black sand and guests staying at Tabacon will enjoy full use of the thermal mineral springs. The water is heated by the volcano and the temperature in the pools ranges between 72 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Head upstream and you’ll find the Shangri-La Gardens, an adult-only hideaway with six pools, cocoon-shaped cabanas and bar. The open-air spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, made all the more relaxing by the idyllic surroundings and sounds of the rainforest.

There are two restaurants offering a mix of Costa Rican and international cuisine, as well as four bars.

Overview

Nayara Bocas del Toro is a romantic, adults-only Balinese-inspired resort. Stay in over water pool villas, where the interiors are filled with expertly carved Balinese-style tweak wood and the outdoor terraces have their own private plunge pools, or relax in the stunning Elora Hardy IBUKU-designed treehouses. These are built from locally harvested bamboo, as well as hardwoods harvested from the bottom of the Panama Canal. The whimsical, groundbreaking designs fuse Balinese and Panamanian aesthetics. And at a height of fifty feet above the ground, you’ll get a sweeping view of the surrounding forest, mangroves, and ocean from above canopies.

For dining you can enjoy international cuisine with local flavour and ingredients. The chef at the majestic Elephant House creates a new meticulously crafted dinner menu every night of the week. All the meals are prepared using the finest hand selected meats, local seafood directly from the sea, and fresh organic vegetables and ingredients.

Experiences include unwinding with a massage or treatment from the comfort of your private villa terrace or within the peaceful indoor spa. For the more active, you can explore the overwhelming natural beauty of the Bocas del Toro Archipelago, snorkel coral reefs teeming with life, scuba dive ancient shipwrecks, surf incredible waves or and fish for snapper and yellow fin tuna.

Overview

Tucked away between pristine waters and lush rainforests, La Coralina Island House offers you a luxurious haven from which to explore Bocas del Toro. The hotel boasts eight uniquely designed villas and 23 rooms which blend beautifully into the surrounding nature. One of the fundamental beliefs here is that living close to nature is the greatest luxury. Enjoy sweeping views of the vibrant Caribbean or the peaceful gardens and rainforest, seclusion and the perfect balance of indoor/outdoor living.

La Coralina Restaurant & Lounge Bar features a fully open-air concept, taking advantage of the dramatic surroundings and giving you an ocean view from almost every angle. The menu redefines the Caribbean dining experience and focuses on fresh, local ingredients expertly crafted into simple, delicious contemporary cuisine, best enjoyed beachside.

Spend your days engaging in a variety of activities like surfing, nature tours and wellness treatments. La Coralina offers a rich experience immersed in the splendor of Bocas del Toro, with the added assurance that they are fully committed to sustainability and exceptional hospitality.

Overview

Perched among the sparkling blue waters off Panama’s idyllic Caribbean coast, Sweet Bocas is a family-run, private oasis offering a truly spectacular stay. Accessible only by boat, the main lodge is situated in a stilted, over-water villa that floats serenely on the gentle waves, while the rest of the estate is discreetly tucked among the verdant foliage surrounding a freshwater lake. There are just 13 bedrooms in total, seven of which reside in the 20,000 square foot main villa. Vibrant colours and whimsical furnishings sourced from around the world pop against the wood-panelled walls, with each window looking out onto the sea.

With the ocean so temptingly close, it’s no surprise there are myriad ways to enjoy it, including world-class surfing with a champion surf instructor, water skiing, scuba diving, and best of all, an expedition on the estate’s 30 foot yacht. Head back to the villa for fresh, tasty meals whipped up from organic produce grown on the estate’s permaculture farm. The estate is sprinkled with scenic spots to mark special experiences, from intimate outdoor dining under The Pergola, to fine dining and celebrations for up to 70 guests in The Casbah.

Overview

The story of Panama’s history unfolds at Hotel La Compañía in the heart of Casco Antiguo. Its three wings have been meticulously restored to reflect the grandeur of the past while also offering you modern comfort. Choose from the elegant French Colonial wing, originally built by Jesuit priests in 1739; the charming Spanish Colonial wing from 1688; or the sophisticated Beaux-Arts rooms in the American wing, dating back to 1904. The hotel’s site is steeped in history, once home to La Compañía de Jesús (The Company of Jesus) after the original Panama City was destroyed in 1671. Following the foundation of the new city in 1673, the Jesuit Convent became a cornerstone of Casco Antiguo.

Discover spectacular spaces with private balconies, vibrant Casco Antiguo views and diverse designs in each wing of the hotel. The 88 guest rooms and suites boast a unique mixture of contemporary luxury and historic grandeur.

Indulge in world-class dining with five exceptional in-house restaurants and two vibrant bars, offering unforgettable culinary experiences. Wine enthusiasts should certainly take the time to experience an authentic wine tasting with an experienced sommelier at La Cava, the underground wine cave. The carefully curated collection here consists of over 1,800 bottles from 12 different countries.

Overview

Located in the heart of the historic Casco Viejo district, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo offers you a luxurious place to call home during your time in Panama City. Here, French elegance blends seamlessly with Panamanian heritage, the historic building, adorned with colonial furnishings and a curated local art collection, preserving its legacy while embracing sustainability for the future. The serene and stylish rooms and suites feature modern comforts and spacious bathrooms adorned with hand-painted tiles. Most accommodations boast stunning ocean views from private balconies.

When you’re not out discovering all the city has to offer, relax poolside with views over the Pacific ocean or spoil yourself with a holistic wellness treatment at Sofitel Spa, designed to restore balance to your body and mind. When it comes to meals, the hotel has two restaurants, three bars and an artisan café to cater to a variety of tastes. Savor Mediterranean fusion at the elegant brasserie, enjoy afternoon tea in the verdant Plaza Courtyard, or end the with a refreshing cocktail on the rooftop.

Overview

Amarla Boutique Hotel offers you a home away from home in the heart of Panama City‘s Casco Viejo. From the moment you step inside, you’ll experience the warmth and attentive service that the hotel’s team prides itself on. Within walking distance, you’ll find iconic landmarks like the Canal Museum, the Cathedral Basilica Metropolitana and the Molas Museum. For a relaxing escape without leaving the hotel, enjoy a soak in the rooftop Jacuzzi, with breathtaking views of Casco Viejo and Panama Bay.

With only eight en-suite rooms, each one uniquely designed and adorned with handcrafted pieces by local artisans, Amarla ensures a personalised stay. The small size of the hotel allows the team to connect with each guest, sharing their love and knowledge of Panama. Every room is thoughtfully decorated with a blend of antiques, local crafts and original art, reflecting the vibrant culture and beauty of the country.

The signature restaurant, Kaandela, is an experience in itself. Specialising in raw, cold and open-fire cooking, the team fuses local and global flavors, bringing their passion to every dish. The dining experience is complemented by expertly paired drinks crafted by a skilled mixologist and sommelier, leaving you with memories that linger long after the meal.

Overview

Set in the historic Casco Viejo district, Central Hotel Panama invites you to make yourself at home in a space where high-end luxury meets the enchanting charm of Panama. Located on the iconic Plaza de la Independencia within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the exquisitely restored property is just steps away from the Presidential Palace, National Theater, Panama Canal Museum and other architectural highlights.

There are 135 elegantly designed guestrooms and suites to choose from, each with captivating views of the Old Town and equipped with the finest modern comforts. The rooms are thoughtfully furnished in Panamanian style, blending colonial-era features with contemporary flair. Whether you choose a cozy deluxe room or a lavish suite, each stay promises an inviting space to call home.

Dining is at the heart of the Central Hotel Panama Casco Viejo experience. Begin your day with a complimentary breakfast, and unwind in the evening with a cocktail on our scenic rooftop or at the Terrace Bar. No visit is complete without savoring the finest Argentinian cuisine at La Central. For the ultimate relaxation, visit the spa or take a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool.